NH rep asks for moment of silence for soldier killed in Afghanistan

CONCORD, N.H. — U.S. Rep. Frank Guinta is calling for a moment of silence on July 4th in honor of a soldier who recently died of injuries suffered in Afghanistan.

U.S. Army Spc. Nicholas Bernier died June 25 at a hospital in Germany. The 21-year-old from East Kingston was a combat medic whose unit came under attack in Afghanistan on June 22.

Bernier joined the Army in March 2008. He arrived at Fort Polk, La., in April 2010 and deployed with his unit in October.

Guinta spoke with Bernier’s family. He is urging New Hampshire residents to pause for a moment during the July 4th holiday in a tribute to Bernier and to all those who have fallen in service to their country.